Addressing Emotional and Psychological Problems
Sometimes students suffer from more than just a case of writer’s
block. Stanford students are under great pressure—much
of it from themselves—to perform. Such pressure can lead
to or be related to deeper problems that might lead a student
to exhibit manic, depressive, or even suicidal behavior. If one
of your students seems in danger, first remember that PWR instructors
are not trained to provide the level of support necessary and
that we cannot handle such serious problems ourselves. Let the
PWR Associate Director know what’s going on immediately,
and he will work with you to call or email the student’s
Resident Dean and other appropriate support staff. If a student
brings a serious emotional or psychological problem to you during
a conference or elsewhere, gently suggest that the student speak
with someone who can provide concrete help: the Resident Fellow,
Vaden’s Counseling and Psychological Services, etc. Then
follow up immediately with a call to the Associate Director,
who will put you in touch with the student’s Resident Dean.
If you spot a suicide risk, reach out right away to the PWR directors
and the Freshman Dean’s Office.
